Every moment in history is a fleeting figment in time, seldom understood in its setting and usually misunderstood by those who write about it. Few historical events are accurately recorded at the time of their occurrence and historians, after the first superficial flush of excitement and speculation, are usually no more accurately recording their interpretation as men who actually participated. History is a mirror often besmirched with dust and grime and pitted by corrosion. Only in the distance is it clear, and a better reflection at that than on the surface.